Please travel safely when taking a road trip with your dog.
As you are thinking about venturing out on vacation road trips, you may want to travel the road with your dog or dogs. If so, here are some things to keep in mind when bringing Fido on the road with you.
Related: Texas Pet-Friendly Hotels(Opens in a new browser tab)
Taking A Road Trip with Your Dog
Taking your pets on road trips is a great way to bond with them, plus it can save you money by not having to board them. Many hotels do not charge pet fees. But traveling long distances in a car isn’t so easy for many. I put my dogs in their crate in either the back seat or the back of the vehicle. They feel much more secure in their crate.
Keep Them Safe And Comfortable In The Car
If you can, avoid putting your dog in the front passenger seat, and if you must, consider investing in a pet seat belt. An accident can happen anywhere, anytime – or even have to put on the brakes suddenly––you wouldn’t want your dog to get injured.
If you’re concerned about messes in the car, you can use blankets to cover the seats or purchase pet seat covers made for dogs. A familiar blanket or small bed will help them stay calm and hopefully get some shut-eye during long stretches of driving.
Know Your Pit Stops
Like having kids, make sure you know where your bathroom stops are. When traveling with your dog, you can avoid accidents by walking them before a long drive. Plan pit stops every 3-4 hours for potty breaks and a quick walk to help them get out some energy.
Bring Proper Supplies
You don’t necessarily need to pack an entire suitcase dedicated to your pup, but you want to ensure you have their daily necessities. Food and water, of course, are essential, but so are a portable water bowl or bottle, poop bags, leash, and collar. Vet contact info and vet records are also good ideas, especially if you’re planning an extended trip. A swim vest is a good idea if you take your dog out on the water (even if they don’t like to swim). And, of course, bedding so they can get a good night’s sleep after a long day of adventuring on the road.
Be Aware Of Summertime Hazards For Dogs
You might not realize it, but there are several hazards to watch for while taking a road trip with your dog. It’s easy not to think of these when you’re back home when the vet is just a quick visit away. But when you’re far from home, it might not be as easy to find care for them.
Being in new environments with your dog can bring unexpected hazards, too. Never leave your dog in the car alone. Pets can overheat quickly in an enclosed vehicle. Although it might be tempting to leave them while you run inside, don’t risk it––especially in the hot Texas summer months. Leave them with another member of your travel crew and take turns going inside.
If you’re traveling solo, tie them up safely somewhere outside or find dog-friendly places to stop. Beware of taking your dog for walks on hot asphalt, too. If your wrist can’t handle a surface, your dog’s paws can’t either.
Beach Visits
If you’re taking a road trip with your dog to the beach, beware of too much saltwater intake. Consuming large amounts of saltwater can be fatal to your dog. Monitor them while they’re in the water, and make sure you have plenty of fresh water on hand for them to drink.
If you’re taking them for a hike, keep an eye (and an ear) out for rattlesnakes on the trails. Ask your vet about the rattlesnake vaccine before you go, and if a venomous snake bites your dog, what should you do.
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